Chennai Super Kings (CSK) completely shook up their main squad for the upcoming season. The franchise traded veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to the Rajasthan Royals. It turned out to be a move that really surprised the fanbase. That is why the team bought Sanju Samson to strengthen the top order. This big change puts a lot of responsibility on Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad to build a winning team from scratch.
Gaikwad likely opens the innings with the promising youngster Ayush Mhatre. Mhatre showed some real talent previously, and the team hopes he scores big runs consistently. Plus, Sanju Samson locks down the number three spot. His ability to crush spin bowling in the middle overs fixes a big problem for the side. Shivam Dube keeps his spot as the designated spin-hitter at number four, where he smashes bowlers all over the park with his long reach.
The middle order features a mix of young blood and old pros. South African talent Dewald Brevis finally gets a real chance in the starting lineup. His aggressive style fits well with the stability the top three bring. At the same time, the legendary MS Dhoni continues as the finisher and wicketkeeper. Fans think this season might actually be his last one in the yellow jersey.
The bowling department looks very different, too. Left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed leads the pace attack, using angles and swing with the new ball. Nathan Ellis backs him up with his skills in the death overs. For spin, the team relies on the mystery of Noor Ahmad and the leg-spin of Rahul Chahar, whom they picked up at the auction.
Best Playing XI for CSK IPL 2026
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)
2. Ayush Mhatre
3. Sanju Samson
4. Shivam Dube
5. Dewald Brevis
6. Sarfaraz Khan
7. MS Dhoni (WK)
8. Jamie Overton
9. Noor Ahmad
10. Khaleel Ahmed
11. Nathan Ellis
Impact Player: Prashant Veer
The team will probably swap Prashant Veer with Shivam Dube depending on how the match goes. Veer was an expensive buy for an uncapped player, but he offers left-arm spin and can hit the ball hard down the order. This lineup mixes big-hitting power with a smart bowling attack, giving Gaikwad plenty of ways to defend totals at Chepauk.
